The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“HONORING FRANCIS B. GIBBS” mentioning the U.S. Dept. of Transportation was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E409-E410 on April 10, 2013.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING FRANCIS B. GIBBS
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HON. RODNEY ALEXANDER
of louisiana
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the achievements and the unwavering commitment to public service of Francis B. Gibbs.
It seems like yesterday that Francis came to Washington to work for his hometown congressman, Ander Crenshaw. He went on to be a trusted aide and friend to U.S. Rep. Connie Mack. Francis spent over five years by Congressman Mack's side, and his fingerprints could be found on legislative matters concerning government expansion, protection of our Constitution and the principles of federalism.
Francis is a man rooted in principle. From his work on the Patriot Act to defending freedom for people in Venezuela and around the Western Hemisphere, Francis served as a tireless advocate for making this government a ``more perfect Union'' by protecting people's individual rights and liberty.
After his son Couper was born, Francis and his wife LeAnne--who worked for Congressman Mike Pence--decided to leave Washington to raise their new family in the Sunshine State. Francis took his drive and passion back to the Florida Department of Transportation, where he serves as the chief of staff, leveraging his experience in Washington with his knack for building consensus to get the right things done for the right reasons.
Mr. Speaker, we know all too well that the political arena can be viewed as a cold and cynical process. Francis's approach has always been different. He builds bridges and more importantly, he creates enduring friendships that remind us that there is a way to serve honorably.
Francis is now facing a fight with colon cancer. He has fought this with the same tenacity he exuded during his congressional days when he battled legislative threats to the Constitution--with passion and grace.
LeAnne, has been a constant source of strength, compassion and grace. Ernest Hemingway had somebody like LeAnne in mind when he wrote
``courage is grace under fire.'' Their anchors are two beautiful children, Couper and Riley.
Francis has a long-term view of what America can and should be. He believes that ultimately America promises a better life for the next generation. He embodies everything that this promise stands for, and his children will live out this American Dream that their dad shaped. Over the years, legislative achievements are forgotten by the public and often become footnotes in a textbook. However, the difference that Francis made--the issues he worked on--will carry on. More importantly, the way he treated people will not be forgotten by those of us fortunate enough to spend time in these hallowed halls.
Mr. Speaker, let us today celebrate Francis Gibbs, honor his wife LeAnne, and tell his children that America will be a better place for them because of the work, love and devotion of their parents.
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